Behaviour of smokers and their influencers in the UK during COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Purpose The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in unprecedented circumstances and changes in behaviour. This research sought to better understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and lockdown, on smoking behaviour in the UK from the perspectives of consumers (current and former smokers) and some of their smoking-related behaviour-influencers. Design/methodology/approach This research project encompassed two surveys, one for current and former smokers (Consumers) and one for those individuals in professions with the potential to influence smoking behaviours (Influencers). Both surveys were conducted online and were infield for approximately two weeks during UKs first COVID-19 lockdown. Because of the unprecedented times the society was experiencing, several questions relating directly to COVID-19 were added to the survey and this paper is based only on findings only from those questions and not the whole project. The results were analysed descriptively. Findings A total of 954 consumers and 1027 influencers participated in the surveys. Increased smoking was reported by 67% of the consumers mainly due to stress and boredom arising out of COVID-19 lockdown. Consumers under 45 years of age, those in professional and managerial occupations, and among dual users reported increased smoking in lockdown. The COVID-19 situation changed the plans to quit smoking in 36% of consumers, with only 6% deciding to quit. Only 40% of healthcare professionals (HCPs) documented patient smoking status in over half their interactions. Originality/ value This research among current and former smokers and their influencers highlights important changes in behaviour during the COVID-19 times and underscores urgent measures to be taken by HCPs and policymakers for staying on course of achieving smokefree goals despite challenges posed by COVID-19.